LGBTQ+ Stories You Should Know About

Texas LGBTQ+ Lawmakers Face Threats, Arrest Warrants in Fight for Fair Maps

This week in Texas, previously endorsed LGBTQ+ Victory Fund candidates are on the frontlines of a dangerous redistricting battle that threatens to erase our community’s representation.

Governor Abbott has issued arrest warrants for lawmakers who fled the state to block extremist maps, plans that would dismantle districts like Rep. Julie Johnson’s and make it harder for champions like Jolanda Jones to win.

State Rep. Lauren Ashley Simmons had her home address published online, putting her family in danger, while State Rep. Erin Zwiener fled with her young daughter for safety. The Texas lawmakers also faced bomb threats at their Chicago hotel. These leaders are risking everything to protect fair maps, voting rights, and our democracy, and Victory Fund is proud to stand with them.

Early Leads and Big Advances for LGBTQ+ Candidates in Washington

Despite Washington’s all-mail voting system meaning primary results will take time to fully roll in, the early news is looking strong for our candidates! Kevin Schilling is advancing to the general election for state legislature, while Carmen Rivera (Renton City Council), Latasha Palmer (Tacoma City Council), Jeff Coughlin (Mayor of Bremerton), Dionne Foster (Seattle City Council), and Alexis Mercedes Rinck (Seattle City Council) are all currently leading in their races. Zev Rose Cook (Tacoma City Council) and Zack Zappone (Spokane City Council) have secured spots in the general, joining Foster and Rinck in the next phase.

And in Detroit, Michigan, Denzel McCampbell is also headed to the general election for City Council. These results show powerful momentum — and we’re just getting started.

Chauntyll Allen and Antwon Womack Poised for Impact in August 12 Races

On August 12, voters will head to the polls for key local elections — and two of our candidates are ready to make history. In St. Paul, Chauntyll Allen is running for City Council and recently spoke with My Villager about her vision and priorities for the community, offering thoughtful, actionable plans for the road ahead.

In Birmingham, Antwon Womack is seeking a seat on the Board of Education for District 8. Alabama has very few out LGBTQ+ elected officials, and Antwon’s leadership would be a vital step toward greater representation and equality in the state’s political landscape.